Tank water heaters are a reliable way to provide a fast supply of hot water for your home. The presence of a storage tank ensures some hot water is readily available. But over time, foreign substances may accumulate inside the storage tank. This might be sediment or mineral buildup coming from the main water line or an opening in the pipes. Whatever the culprit is, this buildup will sometimes negatively impact the efficiency of water heaters. In severe cases it can clog up drainage and could even lead to premature failure.
Fortunately, draining your water heater and removing sediment buildup is a relatively straightforward task. A certified plumber in Tulsa can handle the process, but you can also drain the tank yourself if you know what you’re doing. Whatever you choose, draining the tank now can help minimize the risk you’ll need premature water heater replacement.
Before You Begin…
Before you start draining the tank, you’ll need to shut off the cold water supply. The supply valve connects your water heater with the main water line. Unless you have access to a well (and you might need to drain the tank more regularly if you do), the water main delivers all the potable water your home uses. Keeping the valve sealed will stop more water from flowing into the tank, allowing you to completely drain it.
You’ll also want to have a rubber hose, like one you can use for yard work. The hose allows you to safely drain the water heater tank without spilling water in your garage, utility closet, attic or wherever the water heater is kept. Make sure you place the other end of the hose far away from your home to prevent the water from seeping back inside.
Finally, a screwdriver will help you loosen stubborn screws or valves. You shouldn’t need any more tools than this unless you stumble upon a problem with the water heater or adjacent piping. At that point, it might be best to hire a certified plumber in Tulsa.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Heater
After you’ve turned off the water supply, you can shut off the water heater itself. This will be on the thermostat for natural gas water heaters or with a breaker switch for electric models. The pilot setting on gas water heaters can remain on during flushing, but electric models must be completely off. This is because of the heating elements electric water heaters use, which remain submerged. In an empty tank, they may quickly overheat. You should also check the model’s manual, as some water heaters have to be completely full before the heating elements are started.
Even after you’ve shut off the water heater, you’ll have to wait for the water stored in the tank to cool down. It may be hours before the water reaches a safe temperature, so it is usually best to leave the rest of the process for the following day.
Step 2: Connect the Hose to the Water Heater’s Drain Valve
Tank water heaters have a drain valve you can use to empty the storage tank. Once you’re confident the water supply is disconnected and the water heater itself is off, go ahead and find the drain valve. Some models will have it covered up. Make sure the hose is secure to prevent spilling hot water near you and the water heater.
Step 3: Open a Faucet or Other Hot Water Tap
Your home’s plumbing takes advantage of pressure inside the piping to deliver a consistent flow of water from the main water line to the rest of the house. This pressure needs to be relieved before the hot water can actually drain out of the tank. By heading to the nearest faucet or spigot, you’ll alleviate the pressure inside the piping. All you have to do is open the hot water tap to relieve the pressure before returning to the water heater.
Step 4: Release the Drain Valve
Remember that this water may still have some residual heat. Open the drain valve and allow all the water to drain from the tank. This should pull sediment buildup out of the tank and away from your home. But some buildup might be stuck to the inside of the tank. Turning the cold water supply back on will help wash away stubborn minerals and other substances from the tank.
Repeat this step until the water looks free of sediment or minerals. If the drain isn’t working because of a clog, a trained plumber is likely required.
Step 5: Re-Shut the Valve Before Refilling the Water Heater
If everything proceeds normally, you should be able to clear out most excess sediment hiding inside your water heater. Seal up the drain valve, disconnect the hose and open the water supply to get things flowing again. As the water heater tank begins to fill, head back to the hot water tap you opened. Once cold water starts to flow, you know the pressure is back where it needs to be.
At this point, you can open the gas valve or flip the breaker switch back on. Like we mentioned before, don’t forget that certain models might need to be entirely full before the water can be safely heated. Make sure you check your manufacturer’s instructions before starting the process.
Keep Your Water Heater Sediment-Free for Best Results
Tank water heaters continue to be a great option for supplying your hot water needs. Draining the tank every 1-2 years will help clear out sediment buildup and keep things running at peak efficiency. If you think your water heater is past the point of efficient heating, consider looking for
water heater replacement in Tulsa from a technician you trust.